I am sure I am not the first to welcome you to the University of Maryland: College Park. The next few years of your life will be the most influencial and emotionally captivating experience. There will be times of great stress and times of great fun in your future. The most important part is to be able to manage fun with learning.
I know people have preached to you regarding the importance of going to class and studying extra hard in college. While skipping classes may seem easy and effortless, I must warn you that constantly skipping classes will negatively effect your grades. Unlike high school, every test counts. I remember thinking to myself that doing bad on one or two tests is ok...you can always make up the points on the next tests. What I quickly discovered in college is that every test is incredibly important. One failing grade will be the difference between an A and possibly a C. I don't mean to put to much pressure on you, but studying is neccessary and must be done if you want to be successful at College Park.
I don't want you to think that you can't have fun while in college. There are many activites that you can conduct on campus that are fun. Clubs and Unions are great ways to become involved in the University of Maryland community. Club sports are a great way to release stress and show your skills on the field or courts. Don't fall victim to the freshman 15! Stay in shape and get out there!
The biggest problem I had during my first semester of school is figuring out the best way to study. Whether it is in a lounge, at the library, or in the dorm room, you must find a place that allows you to concentrate on what you're doing. It is important to work out times with your roommate on when each of you study and when each of you relax. Believe me, it is not the best of things to build a rift between your roommate and you. It almost a sort of bond and it's a great way to begin making new friends. Many of my high school friends also attend College Park with me. I found it hard at first to shed my comfort zone of friends, but I learned to meet new people and I know I will make many more before the end of my college career.
I know you will enjoy your stay and the University of Maryland. Please take my advice into consideration when making decisions on campus. I am glad that you spent time reading this time capsule and I hope to one day see you on campus.